My name is Jeffrey Wittwer. I live in South Jersey and obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Rowan University in December, 2008. Growing up a die-hard sports fan, I’ve come to love baseball and the Phillies above all else. This team is my true passion, and I will offer a fan’s insight on Major League Baseball and the team we’ve all come to love, the Philadelphia Phillies.

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Ben Francisco avoided salary arbitration today when he agreed to a one-year $1.175 million contract.

Francisco will have every opportunity during Spring Training to compete for the starting job in right field, while most people expect a platoon of Francisco and Ross Gload to get the bulk of the playing time.

We are pleased to have come to terms with Benny," Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "Our goal in this process is to come to equitable deals. Benny, as we've stated, will have an opportunity to play more regularly in right field this year and I am looking forward to the competition beginning this spring."

The signing leaves Kyle Kendrick as the only salary arbitration eligible player left; Phillies fans are sure to be holding their breath of that one.